OU Sooners looking for DeMarco Murray to cut loose

"(Rehab) is a grind," Gundy said. "Your buddies are out doing what you want to be doing but you're in the (training) room. We have outstanding trainers and physical therapists. But it's a lot of work. It's as much mental as physical to get it done."

OU running back DeMarco Murray scores a touchdown during last season's win over Oklahoma State. PHOTO BY SARAH PHIPPS, THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE

Murray said he's as strong mentally as he's been since he arrived on campus. He reported at 207 pounds, down from 214 a year ago. He's confident he can still supply home-run plays, provide production as a receiver out of the backfield and pound for tough yards up the middle.

"I've always tried to gain (weight) as long as I've been here," Murray said. "When I first got here I was only 190. I've always put on weight for other people, not myself. So this year I concentrated on what I wanted to do. I know my body and felt this was the best weight for me.

"Last year I felt I could be a little stronger between the tackles. This year I wanted to go back to my normal weight, what I'm used to, not too heavy, not too light, somewhere in the middle. I feel I still have the speed as well as the strength. I'm feeling really good."